What engine is in a 1987 Chevy S10?
In 1987, the Chevy S-10 offered multiple engine options. The base model used a 2.5-liter inline-four, with optional V6 powertrains including a 2.8-liter and a 4.3-liter displacement, depending on trim and market.
Engine options in 1987 S-10
The following engines were commonly available across the 1987 S-10 lineup, though availability varied by model, cab configuration, and region.
- 2.5-liter inline-four — The base powerplant, emphasizing efficiency for everyday use and paired with various transmission choices.
- 2.8-liter V6 — A mid-range option offering more torque for cargo and light towing duties, available on select trims.
- 4.3-liter V6 — The largest engine in the lineup, delivering the most pulling power for heavier loads.
Availability of each engine varied by cab configuration, bed length, trim level, and regional market. Checking the original window sticker or VIN/RPO data is the best way to confirm the exact engine for a specific truck.
How to identify the engine in your 1987 S-10
If you own a 1987 S-10 and aren’t sure which powertrain it has, you can identify it using several reliable methods. The steps below describe common ways to verify the engine family on a vintage GM pickup.
- Inspect the engine block for displacement or family codes stamped into the metal, which usually indicate whether you have the 2.5L I4 or a V6 configuration.
- Look for a label under the hood or on the radiator support that lists the engine code or RPO (Regular Production Option) codes used by GM in that year.
- Check the glove box door decal or the owner's manual for the original engine specification and option codes.
- Cross-reference the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with a GM parts database or classic-vehicle reference to confirm the engine family tied to that VIN.
With a little detective work, the exact engine can be confirmed without guessing from appearance alone.
Historical context and practical notes
The S-10’s early powertrains reflected GM’s strategy to offer a compact pickup with a choice between efficiency and capability. The 2.5L inline-four prioritized fuel economy for light-duty use, while the V6 options provided stronger torque for hauling and towing tasks. Throughout the late 1980s, these engines were paired with simple, robust drivetrains designed for durability and practicality in a growing market for small trucks.
Summary
In short, the 1987 Chevy S-10 offered three main engine options: a 2.5-liter inline-four as the base engine, plus the 2.8-liter and 4.3-liter V6s as more powerful alternatives. The exact engine in a given truck depended on its configuration and region, so verifying via the window sticker or VIN/RPO data is the most reliable method.
How much horsepower does a 1987 Chevy S10 2.8 have?
A powerful 2.8 Liter V6 with Electronic Fuel Injection is optional on all S-10 Pickups. SAE net horsepower is 125 at 4,800 RPM; net torque is 150 ft. -lbs.
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What is a 1987 Chevy V10 worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $14,925 for a 1987 Chevrolet V10 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1987 Chevrolet V10 1/2 Ton at auction over the last three years was $158,500.
Did Chevy make a V10 in 1987?
No, Chevy did not make a V10 engine in 1987; the "V10" in that year's trucks was a model designation for a 4x4 half-ton truck, replacing the previous "K10" name. These trucks were equipped with a range of V8 engines, most notably a 5.7L V8 with throttle-body fuel injection.
- Model name change: GM switched from the C/K 10 designation to the V10/R10 model names for the 1987 model year. The "V10" specifically referred to the 4x4 version.
- Engine: The trucks featured various V8 engines, including a 5.0L and a 5.7L, which was often equipped with fuel injection. A 6.2L diesel option was also available.
- Final year: 1987 marked the last year for this "Squarebody" body style before the introduction of the new GMT400 platform for 1988.
What engine came in the 1987 S-10?
Engines
| Years | Engine | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 1984–1985 | 2.2 L LQ7 Isuzu Diesel I4 | 96 lb⋅ft (130 N⋅m) at 2200 rpm |
| 1985–1986 | 2.5 L LN8 Iron Duke I4, TBI | 134 lb⋅ft (182 N⋅m) at 2800 rpm |
| 1987–1989 | 130 lb⋅ft (176 N⋅m) at 3200 rpm | |
| 1990 | 130 lb⋅ft (176 N⋅m) at 3200 rpm |
